Chamber Music Concert Creates Connection

Young string musicians from the Rockhampton South Catholic Schools (RSCS) Instrumental Music Program played in the beautiful sacred space of St Joseph’s Cathedral in the first Chamber Music Concert for 2026, continuing a 12-year tradition.

Featuring chamber groups from The Cathedral College (TCC), St Peter’s Catholic Primary School, St Paul’s Catholic Primary School Gracemere and St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Wandal, the concert also featured soloists, a combined Year 4, 5 and 6 ensemble performance, the TCC Chamber Ensemble and the TCC Chamber Orchestra.

Creating this exceptional cultural experience for students is Chamber Music Concert director and The Cathedral College teacher, Dr Ayesha Hall who coordinates the RSCS Strings program across the four schools.

“After we were given our first opportunity to perform in St Joseph’s Cathedral, I sought permission for our concerts to be moved there. It's an exceptional opportunity for our students to use their gifts in a sacred place,” she said.

“Playing in the Cathedral can be moving and spiritual drawing you closer to God and the person of Jesus Christ. It’s my hope the students will remember and cherish this experience for a lifetime” she said.

Underpinning the performance is the specific chamber music education Dr Hall teaches.

“When small groups of students are requested for special events they draw on their Chamber Music skills as small ensembles require very close collaboration with other students, good listening skills, flexibility and the ability to play unconducted,” she said.

Recently, TCC Chamber groups played at Bishop Danny Meagher’s Inauguration Welcome Dinner as well as Bishop Michael McCarthy’s Diocesan Farewell event.

In further good news two TCC Chamber Groups, Iolite and Rubellite were awarded Highly Commended from Australia’s Musica Viva Strike A Chord Chamber Music Competition from over 170 entries nation-wide.

Soloist Charli performs classical piece in Cathedral.

TCC Chamber group played at Bishop McCarthy's Diocesan Farewell.